A review of the Duckhorn winetasting experience

Late last week, the San Francisco Chronicle’s Stacy Finz ran an article on Napa’s Duckhorn Vineyards. The story, which talks a bit about the history of the winery, is really a review of the wine tasting experience at one of Napa’s more esteemed locales.

Overall, Finz gave the winery two stars (or a “good” rating) out of a possible four. Here’s a quick excerpt from Finz on the wine tasting experience:

The staff was accommodating, but a little standoffish. They seemed to assess your seriousness about the wine before deciding whether you were worth a spiel about Duckhorn.

These remarks really caught our eye as we’re slated to do some wine tasting at Duckhorn with family in a few weeks. Have you visited Duckhorn lately? What do you think? Stay tuned for a full report on our experience…

On the other hand, they were extremely professional, and were willing to talk if you show interest or knowledge. Plus, they do not hard sell wine clubs.

I actually like sitting down rather than standing at a counter. They also serve little extras (nuts, olive oil, raisins, bread). The architecture is very elegant, restrained and polished and beautiful without being glitzy or over the top. It’s a rather hushed place, not a party scene.

The wines are pricey but quite good. I’ll buy more when my budget permits (I also really, really like Paraduxx down the road. Very similar polished scene).

It just depends on what you want. If you want folksy, down home trip over the hoses going to the tanks-not your place. (I like both styles, so I’m easy!)

BrianMarch 21, 2007, 7:59 pm

I don’t know. I sense a little bit of coolness (I was underdressed).

On the other hand, they were extremely professional, and were willing to talk if you show interest or knowledge. Plus, they do not hard sell wine clubs.

I actually like sitting down rather than standing at a counter. They also serve little extras (nuts, olive oil, raisins, bread). The architecture is very elegant, restrained and polished and beautiful without being glitzy or over the top. It’s a rather hushed place, not a party scene.

The wines are pricey but quite good. I’ll buy more when my budget permits (I also really, really like Paraduxx down the road. Very similar polished scene).

It just depends on what you want. If you want folksy, down home trip over the hoses going to the tanks-not your place. (I like both styles, so I’m easy!)